Lajes provides fuel for the oldest Navy P-3 squadron

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Chyrece Campbell
  • 65th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
LAJES FIELD, Azores --  More than five Navy P-3 Orions from the 46th Patrol and Reconnaissance Squadron stationed at the Navy Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash., touched down at Lajes Field to receive more than 15,000 gallons of JP8 jet fuel.

The P-3s were returning home from a deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"Landing at Lajes was very refreshing, because we got to get out of the plane and stretch our legs while the plane got refueled," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Ryan Roberson, a member of the VP-46, as they often refer to their unit.

"While I was excited to stretch my legs, I wanted to get back on the plane so I could get home to my wonderful, Jeni," added Petty Officer Roberson.

The unit was deployed to the area of responsibility for more than 190 days.

The VP-46 is the oldest American maritime patrol squadron and the second oldest squadron in the entire U.S. Navy. VP-46 has participated in every major U.S. military conflict since the squadron's inception and has constantly maintained the highest standards of service.

"With this being my first deployment with this unit, it's cool being a part of history," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Douglas Novoa.

The squadron holds a Pacific Fleet record with more than 40 years and more than 300,000 hours of accident-free operations. The command has earned the title, "The Oldest and the Best."